The new South Perimeter Way is open – check it out

A third link in and out of the Upper Mission has opened to traffic.

South Perimeter Way was first discussed in the 1995 Official Community Plan, and fast-tracked due to rapid growth in the neighbourhood. It wasn’t initially set to be complete until nearly 2030.

“[It will provide] improved access for emergency services, and better transportation connections for the proposed commercial development in the Ponds neighbourhood,” Mayor Tom Dyas said in a video announcing the road opening.

The 2.3-kilometre road connects the south end of Gordon Drive to Stewart Road West.

It includes paved shoulders for walkers and bikers, and a separated gravel multi-use path that connects Bellevue Creek Greenway to Canyon Falls Park.

The city said the project is a prime example of the city working with a development community to enable the road to advance sooner than planned.

Pond Ventures financed the nearly $10 million project, saving taxpayers about $1 million.

Improvements have been made at the intersection of Stewart and Saucier Road, while more enhancements will come to Bedford and Dehart Road once traffic volumes and patterns are measures on the new route.